
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains rank among the top three injuries afflicting athletes today. Luckily, though, these injuries are–with just the right care–relatively simple to treat and heal.
A sprain involves the tearing and stretching of those ligaments that connect the bones, most frequently the ankle. A strain, by contrast, involves the tearing or stretching of a tendon or muscle; most commonly in the lower back and the back of the thigh (most specifically, in the hamstring muscle). Both conditions are characterized by pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. A sprain often comes accompanied by a popping of the joint, while a strain is commonly associated with muscle spasms.
When mild, both sprains and strains are generally treated through a light and brief regimen of ice, rest, therapeutic massage, compression, pain-killing medications, modified activity, PRP, shockwave therapy, and elevation. When injuries are moderate or several, treatments may include physical therapy, bracing, or even surgical repair.